Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic Italian-American pasta dish that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta for a comforting and filling meal. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan cheese gives this recipe a flavorful boost that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Keep reading for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious dish at home.
The History of Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini is a dish that has a long and storied history, with many different theories as to how it came to be. Some say that it was created by the famous Italian chef and restaurateur, Ernest Arbogast, while others attribute its creation to the famous opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, for whom the dish is named. Still others say that it was invented by a group of French chefs who were looking to put a new spin on traditional Italian pasta dishes. Regardless of where it came from, there is no denying that Chicken Tetrazzini has become a beloved dish all around the world, with countless variations and adaptations being created every year.
How to Make Chicken Tetrazzini from Scratch
The secret to making the perfect chicken tetrazzini from scratch is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the details. Start by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sliced mushrooms to the butter and sauté until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are golden brown. Next, add diced cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine the ingredients. In a separate saucepan, whisk together some milk and flour until smooth. Add the milk mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens. Finally, fold in the cooked spaghetti noodles and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top. Place the skillet in the oven and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes and serve hot. Your homemade chicken tetrazzini is ready to be enjoyed!
| INGREDIENTS | QUANTITY | BUTTER | ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR | CHICKEN BROTH | HEAVY CREAM | GARLIC POWDER | SALT | GROUND BLACK PEPPER | GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 2 cups, cooked and chopped | ||||||||
| Spaghetti | 8 oz | ||||||||
| Butter | 1/4 cup | ||||||||
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | ||||||||
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | ||||||||
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | ||||||||
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | ||||||||
| Salt | 1 tsp | ||||||||
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp | ||||||||
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
10 Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipes to Try at Home
Are you looking for some easy and delicious chicken tetrazzini recipes to try at home? Look no further! We’ve put together a list of 10 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic chicken tetrazzini to modern twists on the dish, we’ve got you covered. Each recipe is bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creation. So, bring out your inner chef and get ready to explore the world of chicken tetrazzini!
5 Variations of Chicken Tetrazzini You Have to Taste
If you’re looking to add some variation to your chicken tetrazzini, you’re in luck! There are plenty of different ways to spice up this classic Italian dish. Here are 5 variations you have to taste:
- Spinach and Mushroom Chicken Tetrazzini – add some greens with spinach and some earthy flavor with mushrooms;
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Tetrazzini – give your dish a garlicky twist with this variation;
- Bacon Ranch Chicken Tetrazzini – everything is better with bacon and ranch;
- Alfredo Chicken Tetrazzini – add some creaminess and extra flavor with a classic Alfredo sauce;
- Mediterranean Chicken Tetrazzini – take a trip to the Mediterranean with Greek olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Give these variations a try and you won’t be disappointed!
| NAME | DESCRIPTION | KEY INGREDIENTS | PREPARATION/COOKING TIPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Chicken Tetrazzini | The timeless original recipe for Chicken Tetrazzini, featuring tender chicken, mushrooms, and pasta in a creamy sauce. | Chicken breast, mushrooms, garlic, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, spaghetti | To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch. |
| Spinach and Mushroom Chicken Tetrazzini | A healthier twist on the classic dish, featuring fresh spinach and mushrooms. | Chicken breast, mushrooms, garlic, baby spinach, olive oil, whole wheat spaghetti, low-fat milk | Be sure to thoroughly drain any excess liquid from the spinach before adding it to the dish. |
| Broccoli Chicken Tetrazzini | A hearty and flavorful version of the dish, featuring tender broccoli florets and a crispy bread crumb topping. | Chicken breast, broccoli, garlic, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, spaghetti, bread crumbs | Boil the broccoli for just a few minutes before adding it to the dish to ensure it stays crisp-tender. |
| Lemon Garlic Chicken Tetrazzini | A fresh and zesty take on the classic dish, featuring bright lemon and garlic flavors. | Chicken breast, garlic, lemon juice, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, spaghetti, fresh parsley | Be sure not to overcook the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter. |
| Buffalo Chicken Tetrazzini | A unique and spicy twist on the dish, featuring tangy buffalo sauce and blue cheese. | Chicken breast, buffalo sauce, blue cheese, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, spaghetti | For an extra kick of flavor, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dish when serving. |
Can Chicken Tetrazzini be Made in Advance?
When it comes to entertaining guests, it’s always best to plan ahead. One question that often arises is whether or not Chicken Tetrazzini can be made in advance. The short answer is yes, it can be made in advance! However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The sauce for the Chicken Tetrazzini should be made on the day of serving, as it can break if made too far in advance. The pasta can be cooked and then refrigerated, but it’s best to assemble the dish just before baking for optimal taste and texture. By following these steps, you can still serve up a delicious and impressive Chicken Tetrazzini without having to spend all your time in the kitchen on the day of your event!
| DISH TYPE | COOKING TIME | STORAGE METHOD |
|---|---|---|
| Baked Ziti | 25 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Lasagna | 1 hour | Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months |
| Pesto Pasta Salad | 12 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 4 days |
| Spaghetti Carbonara | 20 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 2 days |
| Pasta Primavera | 15 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Chicken Tetrazzini | 1 hour | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | 15 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 2 days |
| Mac and Cheese | 20 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Penne alla Vodka | 20 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Beef Stroganoff | 40 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Vegetable Alfredo | 15 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 2 days |
| Linguini with Clam Sauce | 20 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Pasta with Meat Sauce | 20 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Pasta with Red Sauce | 20 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 3 days |
| Shrimp Scampi | 15 minutes | Refrigerate for up to 2 days |
Low Fat Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe for a Diet-Friendly Meal
Are you tired of bland and boring diet food? Spice up your meal plan with this delicious Low Fat Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe! This dish is perfect for those who want to eat healthily but don’t want to sacrifice flavor. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, carb-free pasta, and steamed vegetables make for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Plus, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in just 30 minutes. Don’t let your diet hold you back from enjoying delicious meals like this. Try it out tonight!
The Best Wine Pairing for Chicken Tetrazzini
When it comes to finding the perfect wine pairing for chicken tetrazzini, you want a wine that will complement the rich and creamy sauce while also balancing out the bold flavors of the dish. One option is a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Shiraz. These wines have enough tannins to stand up to the rich sauce and a bold flavor profile that can hold its own against the chicken and mushrooms. Another option is a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a Pinot Grigio. These wines offer a refreshing contrast to the heavy sauce and help to cut through the richness of the dish, while still offering a subtle flavor that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the chicken and pasta. Ultimately, the best wine pairing for chicken tetrazzini will depend on your personal taste preferences and the specific ingredients and preparation of your dish, but these two options are a great place to start.
Italian vs American Chicken Tetrazzini: What’s the Difference?
Chicken Tetrazzini is a popular pasta dish that has been enjoyed by many people around the world, but did you know that there are actually two different versions of this classic recipe? Italian and American Chicken Tetrazzini have some key differences that can make one version more appealing to you than the other.
Let’s start with the Italian version of Chicken Tetrazzini. It typically features a creamy white sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. The pasta used in this recipe is usually spaghetti or linguine but can vary. The addition of mushrooms, peas, and pimentos is common. Italian Chicken Tetrazzini is usually baked in the oven until the top layer is golden brown and has a more elegant and refined taste compared to its American counterpart.
On the other hand, American Chicken Tetrazzini typically includes a mixture of canned soup, such as cream of mushroom, chicken broth, milk, and cheese. It is often accompanied by vegetables and pasta, usually spaghetti, and topped with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. The American version of this dish often has a more rustic and homey feel and is usually more straightforward to make than the Italian version.
In conclusion, the Italian and American versions of Chicken Tetrazzini both have their distinctive taste and charm. If you are a fan of rich and refined flavors, you might prefer Italian Chicken Tetrazzini. If you value comfort and simplicity, the American version might suit your palate better.
Bechamel vs Alfredo Sauce: Which is Perfect for Chicken Tetrazzini?
When it comes to creamy, indulgent sauces, few are as beloved as bechamel and alfredo sauces. Both sauces can be used in a variety of dishes, and both have their passionate supporters. Bechamel sauce is the classic French white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk and is often used in dishes such as macaroni and cheese. Alfredo sauce, on the other hand, is a rich, flavorful sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese and is popularly used over pasta dishes like fettuccine. The raging debate between which sauce is better all comes down to personal preference. Some prefer the smoother, silkier texture of alfredo sauce, while others prefer the slightly thicker, more indulgent texture of bechamel sauce. In the end, it is up to the individual to decide which sauce reigns supreme. One thing’s for certain – both sauces are undeniably delicious and have rightfully earned their place in culinary history.
| INGREDIENTS | FLAVORS | TYPICAL USES | TEXTURE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
| Bechamel: butter, flour, milk, nutmeg. Alfredo: butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic | Bechamel: Mild and creamy. Alfredo: Rich and savory | Bechamel: Lasagna, moussaka, mac and cheese. Alfredo: Fettuccine Alfredo, chicken Alfredo | Bechamel: Smooth and velvety. Alfredo: Thick and creamy |
How to Cook Chicken Tetrazzini in a Slow Cooker
Chicken Tetrazzini is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for every occasion. Making this crowd-pleasing dish in a slow cooker is not only easy but also yields tender and flavorful results. Here is how to cook chicken tetrazzini in a slow cooker:
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound of chicken breast, cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz of spaghetti, broken into thirds
- 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup of chopped onion
- 1/2 cup of chopped celery
- 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes, salt, and pepper and cook until browned on all sides. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, onion, celery, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and add to the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the spaghetti is cooked through and the sauce is thick and creamy.
- Serve the Chicken Tetrazzini hot, garnished with some additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
What is chicken tetrazzini?
Chicken tetrazzini is an American pasta dish that typically contains diced chicken and mushrooms in a buttery, creamy sauce, served over spaghetti or other long pasta.
What’s the origin of chicken tetrazzini?
The dish was named after Luisa Tetrazzini, an Italian opera singer, who was particularly popular in San Francisco in the early 20th century. It is unknown whether she had any connection to the recipe, but it was claimed by a number of American hotels and restaurants in the early 1900s.
How do you make chicken tetrazzini?
The basic steps to make chicken tetrazzini include cooking spaghetti or other pasta, cooking and seasoning diced chicken, and preparing a sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The pasta and chicken are then combined with the sauce, topped with some more Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, and baked in the oven for 30-40 minutes.
What are some variations of chicken tetrazzini?
One popular variation of chicken tetrazzini is to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Other variations include using different types of pasta like fettuccine, linguine or elbow macaroni, and using different meats like turkey or ham instead of chicken.
Can you make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken tetrazzini ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day or two before baking it. You may need to add a little extra liquid or sauce before baking to prevent it from drying out.
In conclusion, Chicken Tetrazzini is a delicious pasta dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. It can be made with a variety of ingredients, which allows you to customize it to your liking. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it is sure to become a family favourite. Whether you are cooking for a large group of friends or just want to enjoy a hearty meal at home, Chicken Tetrazzini is a great option that is easy to prepare and full of flavour.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
You can easily substitute cooked shrimp or sliced mushrooms for the chicken in this recipe for a delicious variation.
Have you tried making this chicken tetrazzini recipe and what did you think of it?
I made this chicken tetrazzini recipe for my family and they loved it! The dish was creamy and flavorful, and the chicken was perfectly tender. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try!
What other types of pasta can be used in this recipe?
This recipe works well with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even linguine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What’s your favorite way to add more flavor to this chicken tetrazzini recipe?
I like to add some extra Parmesan cheese on top to give it a nice crispy texture and savory flavor.
What other vegetables can be added to this Chicken Tetrazzini recipe?
You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas to this recipe for added flavor and texture.
What kind of pasta works best for this chicken tetrazzini recipe?
For this chicken tetrazzini recipe, it’s best to use long and thin pasta such as spaghetti or linguine. It helps to soak up the creamy sauce and complements the chicken and other ingredients perfectly.
What other types of pasta can be used in this recipe?
You can use any type of pasta you prefer for this recipe. Some popular options include spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne.